Jodey Arrington

A wave of departures from Congress' tax writing committees has intensified competition to fill critical roles in the next Congress. House Ways and Means and Senate Finance committees will see multiple members leave, creating openings for new representatives. Both parties are vying for positions on these influential panels, which shape major tax legislation.

House Republicans met with congressional scorekeepers to discuss estimating costs and savings for a potential third budget reconciliation bill focused on affordability and fraud reduction in social programs. The meeting included RSC Chair August Pfluger, Budget Chair Jodey Arrington, and representatives from conservative policy groups.

Republican strategist Tom Sell defeated populist candidate Abraham Enriquez in a primary runoff for Texas's 19th Congressional District, a solidly conservative area. Sell, endorsed by key GOP leaders including Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan, is poised to succeed retiring Rep. Jodey Arrington in the Republican stronghold.

Republican strategist Tom Sell defeated MAGA-style candidate Abraham Enriquez in a primary runoff for Texas's 19th Congressional District, a conservative stronghold. Sell, endorsed by key House Republican leaders, will face Democratic candidate Kyle Rable in the general election. The win ensures Sell will succeed retiring Rep. Jodey Arrington.

House Budget Chair Jodey Arrington announced plans to advance a budget resolution in June to facilitate a third reconciliation bill (Reconciliation 3.0) focused on fraud prevention and affordability. Speaker Mike Johnson met with GOP leadership to discuss the narrow, party-line legislative package that would involve six or seven committees and potentially pass by end of July.

The Texas GOP Caucus has backed a resolution stating that states have the right to secure their borders against invasion or imminent danger, citing the federal government's failure to act under former President Joe Biden's administration. The resolution argues that states have constitutional authority to defend their territory and citizens. This move is in response to the border crisis and the millions of illegal immigrants who crossed into the country during Biden's administration.

The Texas GOP Caucus has backed a resolution stating that states have the right to secure their borders against invasion or imminent danger, citing the federal government's failure to act. The resolution, introduced by Rep. Jodey Arrington, argues that states have constitutional authority to defend themselves. This comes in response to the border crisis under the Biden administration.

House Speaker Mike Johnson faces a 'hell week' as GOP infighting blocks his agenda to extend surveillance powers, pass a farm bill, and fund ICE/Border Patrol. Republicans demand changes to FISA and DHS funding bills, risking lapses in surveillance and unpaid Homeland Security workers.

President Trump's budget director, Russell Vought, testified about a plan to significantly increase U.S. military spending to $1.5 trillion, requiring substantial upfront investment. The proposal faces criticism for cutting domestic programs by 10%, highlighting political divisions ahead of midterms.

Senate Republicans plan to fund ICE and CBP through budget reconciliation without Democratic input, citing national security concerns. Democrats refuse to compromise, threatening a government shutdown over immigration reforms. The deadline for funding is June 1, with key GOP leaders like Barrasso and Graham pushing for rapid action.